A dedication ceremony was held in Fishersville, Virginia to celebrate the retirement of Senator Emmett Hanger and honor his years of service to the community. Augusta Health and the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association organized the event on June 20, where a special commemorative bench was unveiled in Senator Hanger’s honor. This bench will be installed outside the entrance of Augusta Health as a lasting symbol of appreciation for his contributions.
Senator Hanger, a native of Staunton, served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 1983 to 1992 and later in the Virginia Senate from 1996 to 2024. His most notable achievement was pushing through Medicaid expansion on May 30, 2018, which provided healthcare coverage to over 400,000 Virginians. For his efforts, Senator Hanger received several prestigious awards, including the “Health Care Advocacy Award” from the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy and the “Hero in Health Care Extraordinaire” award from the Virginia Health Care Foundation alongside Governor Ralph Northam.
Mary N. Mannix, President and CEO of Augusta Health, praised Senator Hanger for his leadership and dedication to expanding healthcare access in Virginia. She highlighted his tireless efforts, energy, commitment, and compassionate listening skills that made a significant impact on the community. Senator Hanger’s work alongside Augusta Health has helped advance the healthcare landscape in the Valley, showcasing his commitment to serving the needs of the community.
As one of the few remaining independent community hospitals in Virginia, Augusta Health is governed by a board composed of community members, including those who advocate for the needs of neighbors and businesses. Senator Hanger, being a community member himself, exemplifies a steadfast commitment to the well-being of local communities. The dedication ceremony was well-attended by state and local government officials, showcasing Senator Hanger’s contributions, leadership, and his ability to foster collaborative communities.